3-Day Local-Experience Itinerary: Relaxation & Sightseeing in Flores, Indonesia

Flores, Indonesia

3 days

Komodo Dragon
Gereja Katedral located Larantuka, East Flores, Nusa Tenggara Timur
Flores, Indonesia
Top view of 'Padar Island' in a morning from Komodo Island
Kelimutu Volcan

About Flores, Indonesia

Discover the enchanting island of Flores, Indonesia, a hidden gem nestled between Sumbawa and Timor. Flores offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure. Marvel at the three-colored crater lakes of Kelimutu, explore traditional villages like Bena and Wae Rebo, or dive into the crystal-clear waters of Komodo National Park, home to the world's largest lizard - the Komodo dragon. The island's Catholic heritage is evident in its numerous churches and Easter processions. Flores also boasts pristine beaches, lush forests, and vibrant local markets. Experience the warmth of its people, savor the unique cuisine, and immerse yourself in the island's captivating charm. Flores is a paradise waiting to be explored.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Kelimutu and Bena Village

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Kelimutu Lake. This volcanic lake is known for its changing colors, offering a unique and mesmerizing sight. Enjoy the cool morning air and the stunning views.

Lunch

Enjoy a local lunch in a nearby restaurant. Try some of the local delicacies like Ayam Taliwang or Nasi Goreng.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the traditional village of Bena. Explore the unique culture and traditions of the Ngada people, and admire the ancient megalithic structures in the village.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant. Try some seafood dishes, which are a specialty in Flores.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk along the beach. Enjoy the beautiful sunset and the peaceful atmosphere.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Komodo National Park. Here, you can see the famous Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Don't forget to take some photos!

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try some traditional Indonesian dishes like Satay or Gado-Gado.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Pink Beach. This beach is known for its pink sand, which is caused by red coral fragments. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the beach.

Dinner

Enjoy a beachside dinner. Try some grilled fish or other seafood dishes.

Evening

End your day with a boat tour. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Flores Sea and the surrounding islands.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Traditional Market in Ruteng. Here, you can buy local products and souvenirs.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try some traditional Indonesian dishes like Nasi Padang or Rendang.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Liang Bua Cave. This archaeological site is known for the discovery of the 'Hobbit' species, Homo floresiensis.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant. Try some local dishes like Ayam Betutu or Soto Ayam.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk in the city. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful night views.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Kelimutu Lake

1
Kelimutu Lake

Kelimutu Lake is a volcano, close to the small town of Moni in central Flores. It is famous for its tri-colored lakes, as well as its stunning sunrise views.

Attractions
Parks
Landmarks
Komodo National Park

2
Komodo National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the famous Komodo dragons and a diverse marine ecosystem.

Attractions
Parks
Tours
Pink Beach

3
Pink Beach

One of the seven pink beaches in the world, known for its stunning pink sand and clear waters.

Beaches
Attractions
Traditional Market in Ruteng

4
Traditional Market in Ruteng

The traditional market in Ruteng is a vibrant place where locals come to buy and sell a variety of goods, including fresh produce, textiles, and traditional crafts.

Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Food and Drink
Liang Bua Cave

5
Liang Bua Cave

Liang Bua is a limestone cave on the Indonesian island of Flores. It is known as a site of archaeological importance, as it was here that the remains of the 'Hobbit', a new species of hominid named Homo floresiensis, were discovered in 2003.

Attractions
Landmarks
Bena Village

6
Bena Village

A traditional village that offers a glimpse into the indigenous cultures of Flores. The village is known for its unique architecture and traditional houses.

Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Se'i

Se'i

Se'i is a smoked meat dish, typically pork, that is a specialty of Flores. The meat is marinated in a mixture of salt and spices before being smoked, resulting in a unique, flavorful dish.

Jagung Bose

Jagung Bose is a traditional corn soup from Flores. It's made with corn, coconut milk, and palm sugar, making it a sweet and savory dish that's popular among locals.

Rica Rica

Rica Rica is a spicy fish dish that's popular in Flores. The fish is marinated in a mixture of chili, garlic, and other spices before being grilled, giving it a spicy and flavorful taste.

Uta Tabha

Uta Tabha is a traditional vegetable dish from Flores. It's made with a variety of local vegetables, including cassava leaves, long beans, and eggplant, all cooked in a flavorful coconut milk sauce.

Sambal Dabu-Dabu

Sambal Dabu-Dabu is a traditional chili sauce from Flores. It's made with fresh chilies, tomatoes, and shallots, and is often served as a condiment with meals.

Kue Rangi

Kue Rangi is a traditional cake from Flores. It's made with coconut and rice flour, and is often served with a sweet coconut sauce.

Bajawa Coffee

Bajawa Coffee is a type of coffee that's grown in the Bajawa region of Flores. It's known for its rich flavor and strong aroma, making it a must-try for coffee lovers.

Tuak

Tuak

Tuak is a traditional alcoholic beverage from Flores. It's made from the sap of the lontar palm, and has a sweet, slightly sour taste.

Kolak Pisang

Kolak Pisang is a sweet dessert from Flores. It's made with bananas and sweet potatoes cooked in coconut milk and palm sugar.

Sayur Nangka

Sayur Nangka is a traditional jackfruit curry from Flores. The jackfruit is cooked in a spicy coconut milk sauce, making it a flavorful and unique dish.

Kue Cucur

Kue Cucur is a traditional Indonesian dessert from Flores. It's a type of fried doughnut made with rice flour and palm sugar, and is often served with tea or coffee.

Es Kelapa Muda

Es Kelapa Muda is a refreshing drink made from young coconut. It's popular in Flores, especially during the hot summer months.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Flores, Indonesia is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. During this period, the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, diving, and exploring the beautiful landscapes and cultural sites. However, it's worth noting that even during the dry season, occasional rain showers can occur, so it's always a good idea to pack a light rain jacket.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 8

Thu

Ascension of the Prophet Muhammad

February 9

Fri

Lunar New Year Joint Holiday

February 10

Sat

Lunar New Year's Day

March 11

Mon

Bali's Day of Silence and Hindu New Year (Nyepi)

March 12

Tue

Joint Holiday for Bali's Day of Silence and Hindu New Year (Nyepi)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 8

Mon

Idul Fitri Joint Holiday

April 9

Tue

Idul Fitri Joint Holiday

April 10

Wed

Idul Fitri

April 11

Thu

Idul Fitri Holiday

April 12

Fri

Idul Fitri Joint Holiday

April 15

Mon

Idul Fitri Joint Holiday

May 1

Wed

International Labor Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day of Jesus Christ

May 10

Fri

Joint Holiday after Ascension Day

May 23

Thu

Waisak Day (Buddha's Anniversary)

May 24

Fri

Joint Holiday for Waisak Day

June 1

Sat

Pancasila Day

June 17

Mon

Idul Adha

June 18

Tue

Joint Holiday for Idul Adha

July 7

Sun

Muharram / Islamic New Year

August 17

Sat

Indonesian Independence Day

September 15

Sun

Maulid Nabi Muhammad (The Prophet Muhammad's Birthday)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Boxing Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Labuan Bajo in Flores is accessible by air with daily flights from major Indonesian cities like Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya. Komodo Airport in Labuan Bajo is the main entry point for most tourists.

Car rentals are available in major towns like Labuan Bajo and Maumere. This gives you the flexibility to explore Flores at your own pace. Remember, in Indonesia, they drive on the left side of the road.

Buses are the most common form of public transportation in Flores. They connect major towns and cities but can be quite slow due to the hilly terrain and winding roads.

Renting a motorbike is a popular way to get around Flores. It gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. However, it's recommended for experienced riders due to the challenging road conditions.

Taxis are available in larger towns like Labuan Bajo and Maumere. They're a convenient way to get around, especially if you're not comfortable driving on Flores' challenging roads.

Shared taxis, known as "bemos", are a common form of transportation in Flores. They're essentially minivans that operate on fixed routes, picking up and dropping off passengers along the way.

Boats are a common mode of transportation for getting to the various islands around Flores, including the famous Komodo Island. There are public ferries as well as private charter boats.

Ridesharing is not widely available in Flores. However, in larger towns like Labuan Bajo, you may find some ridesharing services like Grab, but it's not as common or reliable as in larger Indonesian cities.

Guided tours are a popular way to explore Flores. They often include transportation, meals, and accommodation, and can be a convenient option if you prefer not to worry about logistics.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyRp IDR

Time zoneUTC+7

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 118; Fire: 113; Police: 110

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Flores, Indonesia as a first time visitor

1

Flores is part of the East Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia.

2

The official language is Indonesian, but there are several local languages spoken.

3

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). It's recommended to have some cash on hand as not all places accept credit cards.

4

ATMs are available in larger towns, but can be scarce in remote areas.

5

Flores is predominantly Catholic, but there are also Muslim and animist communities.

6

The climate is tropical, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C).

7

The rainy season is from November to April, and the dry season is from May to October.

8

It's recommended to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

9

Healthcare facilities are limited, especially in rural areas. It's recommended to have travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.

10

Malaria is present in Flores. It's recommended to take precautions such as using mosquito repellent and taking antimalarial medication.

11

Tap water is not safe to drink. Always drink bottled water.

12

Flores is in the Central Indonesia Time zone, which is UTC +8.

13

Public transportation is limited. The most common ways to get around are by car, motorbike, or boat.

14

Driving is on the left side of the road.

15

The electrical outlets are type C and F, with a standard voltage of 230 V and a frequency of 50 Hz.

16

Internet access can be unreliable, especially in remote areas.

17

Flores is known for its traditional weaving. It's a great place to buy handwoven textiles.

18

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious ceremonies.

19

Tipping is not customary in Flores, but it is appreciated.

20

Respect local customs and traditions. Flores is rich in culture and tradition, and it's important to be respectful of this.

Basic Indonesian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Halo

Hah-lo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Selamat tinggal

Se-lah-mat ting-gal

Leaving someone

Please

Tolong

Toh-long

Asking for a favor

Thank you

Terima kasih

Te-ri-ma ka-sih

Showing gratitude

Yes

Ya

Yah

Agreeing with someone

No

Tidak

Tee-dak

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

Permisi

Per-mee-see

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Maaf

Ma-af

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Apakah anda bicara bahasa Inggris?

A-pa-kah an-da bi-ca-ra ba-ha-sa Ing-gris?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Saya tidak mengerti

Sa-ya tee-dak men-ger-ti

When you don't understand what was said

How much does this cost?

Berapa harga ini?

Be-ra-pa har-ga ee-nee?

Asking for the price of something

Where is the bathroom?

Di mana kamar kecil?

Dee ma-na ka-mar ke-chil?

Looking for a bathroom

I need a doctor

Saya butuh dokter

Sa-ya bu-tuh dok-ter

In case of a medical emergency

Can I get the menu, please?

Bisa saya minta menu, tolong?

Bee-sa sa-ya min-ta me-nu, toh-long?

At a restaurant

Water

Air

Ah-ir

Ordering water

Beer

Bir

Beer

Ordering beer

Delicious

Enak

E-nak

Complimenting food

Help

Bantuan

Ban-tu-an

In case of emergency

Taxi

Taksi

Tak-see

Looking for a taxi

Hotel

Hotel

Ho-tel

Looking for a hotel

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Swimwear

  • Socks

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Flip flops

  • Hat or cap

  • Sunglasses

  • Light rain jacket

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger and power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Memory cards

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Books or e-reader

  • Travel guide and map

  • Umbrella

  • Ziplock bags

  • Tissues or wet wipes

Weather Conditions

Flores, Indonesia, is a tropical paradise that experiences warm weather throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). However, it's important to note that Flores has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, from May to September, is the best time to visit Flores. The weather is pleasant, with less humidity and rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, diving, and exploring the beautiful landscapes. Remember to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. The rainy season, from November to March, sees more rainfall and higher humidity. If you're planning to visit during this time, pack a waterproof jacket and shoes, as sudden rain showers are common. Despite the rain, the beauty of Flores doesn't diminish. The landscape becomes even more lush and green, and it's a great time for bird watching. Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to stay hydrated due to the tropical climate. Also, don't forget to pack insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially during the rainy season. Lastly, always check the local weather forecast before planning your daily activities, as weather conditions can change rapidly in tropical regions like Flores.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

31° / 23°

January is the start of the rainy season in Flores, so expect frequent showers and high humidity.

February

31° / 23°

February continues the rainy season, with high humidity and lush green landscapes.

March

31° / 23°

March sees the end of the rainy season, with rainfall decreasing towards the end of the month.

April

31° / 23°

April is the start of the dry season, with less rainfall and more sunny days.

May

31° / 23°

May is a great time to visit Flores, with warm temperatures and low rainfall.

June

31° / 23°

June is a popular time for tourists, with warm, dry weather and clear skies.

July

31° / 23°

July is the peak of the tourist season, with hot, dry weather and plenty of sunshine.

August

31° / 23°

August continues the dry season, with hot temperatures and low rainfall.

September

31° / 23°

September is the start of the shoulder season, with slightly cooler temperatures and increasing rainfall.

October

31° / 23°

October sees the start of the rainy season, with increasing showers and high humidity.

November

31° / 23°

November is in the middle of the rainy season, with frequent showers and lush landscapes.

December

31° / 23°

December is a wet month in Flores, with high rainfall and high humidity.

Did you know?

Did you know that Flores, Indonesia is home to the Komodo National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site?

1 of 10

Places near by Flores, Indonesia

Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park

Home to the world's largest lizard, the Komodo Dragon, and offers excellent snorkeling and diving.

1.5h
66 km / 41.0 mi
How to get there
Rinca Island

Rinca Island

Another island in Komodo National Park, known for its population of Komodo dragons.

1h
18 km / 11.2 mi
How to get there
Padar Island

Padar Island

Famous for its stunning panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset.

1.3h
30 km / 18.6 mi
How to get there
Sumba Island

Sumba Island

Known for its traditional villages, unique culture, and beautiful beaches.

1.5h
329 km / 204.4 mi
How to get there
Kanawa Island

Kanawa Island

A small beautiful tropical island, fully surrounded by white sandy beaches and coral reefs.

45m
15 km / 9.3 mi
How to get there
Seraya Island

Seraya Island

A peaceful island with beautiful beaches and great snorkeling spots.

30m
11 km / 6.8 mi
How to get there
Bajawa

Bajawa

Home to traditional villages and hot springs.

3h
109 km / 67.7 mi
How to get there
Ruteng

Ruteng

Known for its beautiful rice fields and traditional villages.

3.5h
140 km / 87.0 mi
How to get there
Ende

Ende

A city with beautiful beaches and the famous Kelimutu volcano.

6h
317 km / 197.0 mi
How to get there
Maumere

Maumere

Known for its beautiful beaches and excellent diving spots.

7h
378 km / 234.9 mi
How to get there

Other Destinations in Indonesia